Miami Beach installs sunscreen dispensers throughout city

50 free sunscreen dispensers installed

MIAMI BEACH, Fla. - The city of Miami Beach is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year and it has a present for residents and beach goers: Sunscreen.

On Friday, city officials unveiled the first of 50 free sunscreen dispensers that will be installed around the city.

The dispensers will be located at various public pools, parks and beach access points near lifeguard stands.

"As the fun and sun capital of the world, people engage in the many outdoor activities available, from relaxing at the beach to playing on our courts. And doing so unprotected can lead to sunburns, which is a major cause of skin cancer," said Miami Beach City Manager Jimmy Morales. "Public safety is priority and we're offering this amenity because we care."

The city launched MB Miami Beach Suncare last year with the help of Mount Sinai Hospital and Destination Brands, the maker of Miami Beach's signature sunscreen.

"As we celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the city of Miami Beach, Mount Sinai Medical Center is proud to be an institution within Miami Beach for over 65 years," said Steve Sonenreich, Mount Sinai president and CEO. "We are pleased to offer these free sunscreen dispensers as part of our commitment to improving the health, and well-being of our community and its visitors."

There are an estimated 3.5 million cases of skin cancer diagnosed in the United States each year.

A portion of each bottle sold in stores will go toward maintain the dispensers and keeping them full.